Albemarle Cider Works is a must-visit, boutique producer of some of Virginia’s finest dry-syle sparkling ciders.

This is one of only a couple cider works in the state making dry hard cider from apples they’ve been growing for decades. The ciders are particularly good to cook with and pair well with food.

The cider is served up in an arts and crafts-style tasting room. The space has high ceilings, lazy ceiling fans, and light streaming through the ten-foot windows.

Step outside to the sunny patio to snack on some of the venue’s light and local fare. These include the ciderwork’s Ploughman’s platter (a hot baguette with ham and local cheese) or a cheese and bread plate (a baguette and local chevre).

With 250 apple varieties grown on the farm, there are plenty to sell. You can pick a bushel or a peck to take home.

If you want to stay for a night or longer, the cider works is very near the historic Inn at the Crossroads. A second lodging options is the on-site Rural Ridge Cottage. This a four-bedroom, two bath rental cottage can be booked through the Inn at the Crossroads.

Directions:
Located on U.S. Route 29, just south of Charlottesville, about 8/10 miles north of State Route 692. From Charlottesville, proceed exactly 8 miles south from I-64 and turn right onto Rural Ridge Lane.

Thanks to Nancy Bauer of Virginia Wine in my Pocket for developing the original draft.